Read stories on our blog
Understanding Metastatic Breast Cancer
Metastatic breast cancer (MBC)—also known as Stage IV breast cancer—is breast cancer that has spread beyond the breast to other parts of the body, most commonly the brain, bones, liver, or lungs.
Unlike early-stage breast cancer, MBC is not curable. Individuals with this diagnosis will remain in treatment for the rest of their lives. However, advancements in treatment have allowed many people with MBC to live longer, fuller lives.
Key Facts about MBC:
It is estimated that 168,000 people in the US are living with MBC.
MBC can be treated but not cured.
The median survival rate after a diagnosis of MBC is 3 years.
20-30% of people diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer will experience a recurrence of MBC at some point in their lifetime.
Up to 10% of people diagnosed with breast cancer will receive an initial diagnosis of MBC.
Our Commitment
Since 2015, Twisted Pink has been dedicated to funding breakthrough research to help advance science and provide new treatment options and hope for people living with MBC. We also strive to increase education and awareness about MBC, which is widely misunderstood.
Insiders Guide to MBC
The author, Anne Loeser, herself a metastatic breast cancer patient, created this book to help patients and their loved ones cope with a complex and difficult disease. The Insider’s Guide to Metastatic Breast Cancer provides information about approved therapies in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Australia, as well as scientific studies, cutting-edge research, clinical trials, and palliative care.
The adage that “knowledge is power” is particularly compelling when dealing with issues impacting survival and quality of life. Consequently, this fact-based handbook is a must-read for every patient contending with treatment decisions and side effects.
The Guide is available on Amazon in eBook and paperback.
Video Education Sessions
-
![]()
Circulating Tumor Cell Testing and Biomarker Monitoring
Monthly Education Session
-
![]()
Understanding ADCs (Antibody Drug Conjugates)
Patient-Caregiver Video
-
![]()
CELLSEARCH® Circulating Tumor Cell Test Explained
Educational Videos from our Sponsors
Resources
The organizations listed here are doing wonderful work either outside of our mission or in addition to our mission. We invite you to check them out for additional support!
Support and Connection
ABCD – An international breast cancer organization that provides free, customized, one-to-one emotional support to empower anyone impacted by a breast cancer diagnosis —patients, family, and friends.
CaringBridge – Create an online journal to share your journey with loved ones.
Friend for Life – Connect with other cancer survivors for support.
Hope Scarves – Shares scarves, stories, and hope for cancer patients.
I Have Wings – Dedicated to enriching lives during a breast cancer journey.
Inheritance of Hope – Inspires hope for young families facing the loss of a parent.
James Bess Foundation – Delivering a gift of hope wrapped with joy to those adults 21 - 65 struggling with a terminal illness
Clinical Trials and Research
BreastCancerTrials.org – Explore clinical trials as a routine option for care.
Conquer Cancer Foundation – Accelerating breakthroughs in cancer research.
Metastatic Breast Cancer Alliance – Advocating for and supporting research for MBC patients.
Education and Advocacy
Living Beyond Breast Cancer – Here, you will find tailored information and resources to help you face your breast cancer diagnosis.
Surviving Breast Cancer – Empowers those diagnosed with breast cancer through education, community events, workshops, and advocacy support.
Savor Health – Offers science-based nutrition answers to breast cancer survivors.”
Triage Cancer Center – Provides free education on the practical and legal issues that arise after a cancer diagnosis.
Financial Assistance and Access to Care
Angel Flight East – Provides free air transportation to qualified patients for treatment at distant medical facilities.
CancerCare – The leader in oncology patient assistance.
Healthcare Finances – A collaboration between Pfizer and Triage Cancer, joining people with a shared passion for improving healthcare-related financial literacy.
Komen Patient Financial Assistance Program – Financial support for qualifying patients.
Patient Advocate Foundation – Provides patients with arbitration, mediation, and negotiation to settle issues with access to care, medical debt, and job retention.
The Pink Fund – Provides financial support to help meet basic needs, decrease stress, and allow breast cancer patients to focus on healing while improving survivorship outcomes.
Travel to Hope – Financial help for patients needing to travel for care.
United Breast Cancer Foundation – Offers an array of programs and services to help and support families and individuals dealing with breast cancer..
Genetic Testing
JScreen – A national, non-profit public health initiative based out of Emory University. JScreen’s goal is to make comprehensive genetic screening and counseling affordable and accessible. JScreen’s CancerGEN test analyzes the BRCA genes and over 60 other cancer susceptibility genes. Testing is done at home via saliva, with telehealth genetic counseling.
Stand out for Stage IV.
It all begins with your story.
Maybe you are newly diagnosed with breast cancer, you are a survivor, or you are a thriver living with metastatic breast cancer. Your story and your experience help us educate others about this disease beneath the pink ribbon. We aim to create exceptional access to care and better outcomes for people living with breast cancer. The way you tell your story through Twisted Pink can make all the difference!